Hotel La Escondida

The head chef, Darren Bunn, came to the owners' attention thanks to a recommendation from Yvette's mother, Dolly. Expect to see Yvette, Terry and Dolly dining together in the evening.

The transformation of the scenery during the drive from Alicante airport to La Escondida is dramatic. The parched landscape is progressively overlaid with a green cloak that brings life to the hills. On a small promontory, surrounded by higher peaks, lies La Escondida. Owners Yvette and Terry have sympathetically restored a picture-perfect house to provide an idyllic retreat for couples seeking some solace. It is a testament to the quality of the refurbishment that nothing seems out of place. Dark wooden beams are proudly exposed, whilst here and there the stonework is artistically revealed to display the historic building in all its glory. Gone are the ubiquitous flatscreen televisions of the modern hotel room: why would you need one? Arm yourself with a book and head over to the outdoor pool. Choose a sun-lounger under the mottled shade of the wooden canopies, where the fiery shafts of the Spanish sun are attenuated to a soporific wave that washes the stress away.

In the morning the sun will have beaten you down to breakfast, so join her on the terrace once you have languidly limped from sleep. The view alone is worth it. Beneath you is the large lower terrace covered in glowing orange tiles and enclosed by a gleaming white balustrade. A final few steps take you down to the immaculate green lawn leading to the outdoor pool.
If warmer waters take your fancy, even the indoor pool has views on three sides of the stunning surroundings. Dinner reflects what La Escondida is all about: luxury in a relaxed atmosphere. All the delights of fine dining are at your fingertips but without an iota of stuffiness. When you leave you need not say goodbye:  I guarantee that you will be back.